Florence Police Department Honors Officers

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FLORENCE, Ala. (WHNT) - One by one, Chief Ron Tyler recognized his officers. He recognized some for their accomplishments and honored those who lost their lives in the line of duty.

"Police officers are my heroes. And I get to work among them every day. It's truly a thrill and privilege of mine to be able to organize this event and pay appropriate tribute to those who have served and sacrifice so much," said Tyler.

Four families know that sacrifice a little too well. Sargent Chris Ticer is one of those people. Ticer was inspired to be an officer after his father's death

"I was sixteen when he got killed in the line of duty. Once you get into this kind of work it just changes you and you know it's an honor to be here. And I’m proud to follow in his footstep," said Ticer.

Those footsteps changed Ticer and allowed him to join a unique group of people who not always get the credit they deserve.

"I'm glad that, you know, our department and the other agencies in this area take the time to recognize the officers that had died in the line of duty," said Ticer.